One of the most important things homeowners can do is to regularly inspect their roof. This can be done from the ground or with a ladder. It is especially important to inspect during stormy seasons, as damage caused by wind and rain can occur quickly.
Keeping gutters clean can prevent blockage, and checking for rust or broken caulking can help prevent leaks. Inspecting the flashing around chimneys and vent pipes is also a crucial part of roofing maintenance. Keep reading the article below for Free Estimate.
Gutters are a vital part of your roof system, whisking away water and debris from the surface. But clogged gutters can cause water damage to the fascia boards, siding and structure of your home. So cleaning them regularly (at least twice per year) is a critical part of any homeowner’s roofing maintenance plan.
The traditional method for cleaning your gutters is to climb a ladder and manually scoop out the gunk with a gutter scoop or a brush. But this can be dangerous, especially on windy days or if you’re close to power lines. A better solution is to use a leaf blower on the gutters. This can eliminate the need for climbing a ladder and makes it safer for you to clean the gutters from the ground.
Once you’ve removed all the gunk and debris, flush the gutters by spraying them with a garden hose to remove any remaining clogs. This will ensure that your gutters are draining properly and will prevent a recurrence of the clogged condition.
Be sure to examine the gutters for signs of corrosion or damage, like rust, split seams or missing sections. Also check the downspouts for clogs and to ensure that they are draining properly. Finally, check your attic for any signs of a leaky roof, such as moldy spots in the insulation or a musty smell. Keeping your gutters clean can help prevent leaking roofs and save you from costly repairs in the future.
Inspect the Flashing
Flashing is sheet metal fabricated into a specific shape to prevent moisture from penetrating the roof system. Without flashing, the underlying wood framing is vulnerable to rot and structural damage. It is used in the most vulnerable areas of the roof such as the corners, dormers, valleys, and penetrations such as chimneys, vents, and skylights.
Failing roof flashing is a common problem that can be costly for homeowners. It is important to inspect the flashing regularly and make repairs when needed. This will save you money in the long run and prevent more serious problems down the road.
Some of the signs that flashing is failing include leakage, water stains on ceilings or walls, and sagging. It is also important to check the flashing around skylights, vents, and chimneys for any rust or other signs of damage.
If you notice any of these signs, it is a good idea to have a professional roofer inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs. A professional will be able to determine the cause of the problem and ensure that it is fixed properly.
Additionally, a professional will be able to perform the repairs quickly and efficiently so that you can get back to your daily routine. Most reputable professionals offer warranties and guarantees on their work, so you can rest assured knowing that the job will be done correctly. They will also be able to provide you with tips and tricks for maintaining your roof. This will help you keep your roof in top condition for years to come. The tips that you will receive from a professional are invaluable, and they will save you time and money in the long run.
Trim Trees
The trees around your home offer cooling shade, but their limbs can damage your roof and block drainage from your gutters. Trimming tree branches regularly prevents storm damage and allows for the removal of debris.
Aside from removing damaged or dead limbs, regular pruning helps trees grow strong and healthy, while creating an attractive landscape for your yard. You can prune to control growth, improve structure, or create a distinctive shape. However, it is important to understand the basics of pruning before attempting any major trimming.
Start by removing the crowded branches and those that are overly long or heavy. Then, remove suckers (long shoots that branch out from the base of a trunk or root) and water sprouts (those that grow upward from the ground). Avoid cutting a tree to more than 18-1/10 of its total height, as this will encourage new vertical branches and weaken the structure. Also, don’t seal pruning cuts by painting them; this is a bad practice and inhibits healing.
If you have a broken terminal leader, replace it by splinting an upper lateral on the highest scaffold to a vertical position braced with a wooden stick. Prune the splint and any laterals above it after one growing season, making sure to cut back to an outward-facing bud to promote a stronger branch.
You should also regularly trim any overhanging branches that hang close to your roof. This will prevent tumbling branches during a storm, and will keep leaves from building up on your roof, causing rot and algae buildup. Ideally, you should have your trees professionally inspected on a regular basis to identify potential problems. Our Roof Shield maintenance program inspects and cleans gutters, roofs, skylights, trims limbs and trees, and makes any necessary repairs.
Reapply Sealant
If the sealant around metal roofing is worn out or damaged, a quick repair can prevent future damage and water leaks. As with cleaning, reapplying roof sealant is most effective when done in combination with regular inspections.
Special circumstances may call for reapplying sealant more often, such as after a major repair or in areas with visible damage or leaks. Specialized roofing sealants are available that provide superior protection for metal roofs, especially in harsh weather conditions.
It’s also wise to reapply caulking around any penetrations on the roof, such as chimneys and skylights, in addition to sealing joints and seams. Caulking helps to prevent moisture intrusion and provides a barrier against fungus and other harmful organisms.
Before reapplying sealant, thoroughly clean the area and remove any debris. This process also helps to prevent any clogging that could interfere with the adhesion of new caulking. For best results, select a caulking material that is compatible with the type of roof you have.
When reapplying sealant, begin at the highest point of the roof and work down to ensure a consistent application throughout the entire surface. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding drying times and application techniques.
Once the sealant has cured, test it with a water hose. This will help to confirm complete coverage and efficacy. If the hose produces no leaks, it is likely that the repair was successful.
Rust is a common cause of leaks on metal roofs, and prompt repairs can help to preserve the longevity of the roofing materials and structure. Maintaining a properly functioning roof is essential to keeping your home and family safe from the elements. Regular maintenance and frequent inspections can help to identify issues before they deteriorate, which will save you time, money, and aggravation in the long run.
Check for Rust
As with any metal roof, you’ll need to inspect the structure for rust on a regular basis. Since rust can weaken the metal and lead to leaks, it’s important to catch it as early as possible.
Fortunately, metal roofs are incredibly durable, and can last 40-70 years. However, that doesn’t mean that they don’t need care and attention. It’s important to check your roof regularly for rust spots, especially those on seams or joints, and address them as soon as they appear. This will help prevent further damage and extend the life of your roof.
If you do spot a rust spot, it’s important to scrub it down with a wire brush to remove the rust and any underlying corrosion. You’ll also need to wash the area with hot, soapy water to make sure that it’s clean and ready for a protective coating. Ideally, you should use a coating that provides an impenetrable barrier to rust. This will ensure that your roof is protected from future rust issues and keep the internal metal intact for longer.
It’s also a good idea to do your inspection on a sunny day, as rust tends to spread quickly and can be difficult to notice in cloudy weather. Additionally, you should avoid climbing up on a metal roof when it’s raining or storming. This can be dangerous and counterproductive.
In addition to these steps, you should also ensure that your gutters are cleaned regularly and that there’s adequate ventilation in the attic. This will reduce moisture build-up, which can lead to mold, mildew and rot. This can be expensive to repair, so it’s best to prevent it altogether.
